Scotland’s Dementia Carer Voices conducted a survey in 2013 and 2014 to capture the experiences of people caring for someone with dementia. Here’s what I found the most interesting:

79% of carers said other people didn’t understand what they’re going through. That’s why online communities of caregivers are so important.

The support from other carers has been my lifeline

Not only are online communities critical for bringing caregivers together to be able to talk freely, nearly 40% of carers said they found critical information from caregiver support groups.

As of yet, the only real support I get is from strangers who I find online who are going through the same thing that I am

Carers spoke of being exhausted, both mentally and physically, feeling isolated, feeling guilty, and having trouble dealing with feelings of guilt and loss.

Are you becoming a dementia carer? The advice experienced caregivers give is:

Join a support group, be good to yourself, and get outside help immediately so that your loved one will get used to it from the start

You can read Tommy’s blog about the report or read the full report and view the survey online [PDF].